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Abstract Lung cancer is one of the most critical global health threats, as the second most common cancer and leading cause of cancer deaths globally. While smoking is the primary risk factor, an increasing number of cases occur in nonsmokers, with lung cancer in nonsmokers (LCNS) now recognized as the fifth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Recent evidence identifies air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), as a significant risk factor in LCNS. PM2.5 can increase oxidative stress and inflammation, induce genetic alterations and activation of oncogenes (including the epidermal growth factor receptor, EGFR), and contribute to lung cancer progression. This review summarizes the current understanding of how exposure to PM2.5 induces lung carcinogenesis and accelerates lung cancer development. It underscores the importance of prevention and early detection while calling for targeted therapies to combat the detrimental effects of air pollution. An integrated approach that combines research, public health policy, and clinical practice is essential to reduce the lung cancer burden and improve outcomes for those affected by PM2.5 exposurrre.

Abstract The semiconductor industry serves as a key enabler of technological progress and economic growth on a global scale. With Southeast Asia emerging as a region of increasing importance in the global supply chain landscape, understanding the potential for its countries to participate in the semiconductor supply chain becomes crucial. Despite extensive research on global supply chain dynamics, a focused analysis on the role of Southeast Asia within this crucial industry has been notably absent, particularly considering recent geopolitical and economic shifts. This gap has been filled by employing a rigorously designed Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) approach that integrates the Criteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) method and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). Data on fifteen indicators, including economic stability, technological innovation capacity, and infrastructural capabilities, were collected and identified through an extensive literature review and consultations with stakeholders. These indicators were weighted using the CRITIC method to reflect their relative importance, and each country’s position relative to an ideal solution was assessed using the TOPSIS method. It was revealed that countries such as Singapore and Malaysia possess significant potential due to their advanced technological infrastructure and stable economic environments. Other countries, like Vietnam and Indonesia, were also found to exhibit promising capabilities, albeit with certain limitations. The study highlights the varying strengths and strategic areas that should be considered by policymakers and investors to enhance integration into the global semiconductor supply chain. Significant contributions to the strategic decision-making process have been made by providing a nuanced analysis of the region’s readiness and identifying specific areas for investment and policy intervention. By offering a methodological framework that can be adapted to other regions and sectors, not only has an existing research void been filled, but the practical understanding of effectively leveraging Southeast Asia’s potential in the semiconductor industry has also been enhanced.

Abstract English as a foreign language (EFL) learners often read at rates below recommended reading speeds needed for reading fluency. Two methods are often employed to facilitate reading rates: unassisted repeated reading (UARR) and audio-assisted repeated reading (AARR). Both approaches have demonstrated significant gains. However, the two methods’ effects have not been explored and compared in the course of one investigation. To address this, an experimental design was employed with undergraduate EFL learners (N = 50) at a university in Southern Vietnam. The results indicated that both procedures produced significant positive gains; however, the AARR showed a significantly higher effect than UARR (77.27, 44.72, p

Abstract Given the high prevalence of clinical disease and disability among elderly individuals, there is an ever-greater demand for social care services. Despite this demand, the elder care sector has the largest labor shortage levels among all front-line providers of long-term care services. Strategies to reduce turnover and improve employee loyalty have therefore become an important issue. The purpose of this study is to identify the factors that affect the loyalty of home care workers. Following a literature review, wedetermined four independent variables—job satisfaction, work engagement, organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and transformational leadership—and investigated their relevance to, and ability to predict, home care workers’ employee loyalty. A total of 455 home care workers participated in the anonymous survey. The results of multiple regression analysis indicate that the adjusted coefficient of determination (R 2) of the model explained 65.6% of the variance of the dependent variable, showing high explanatory capacity. The influences of the four independent variables on employee loyalty were all significant and positive, with the greatest impact on employee loyalty being exerted by OCB (Adjusted ß = 0.400), followed by job satisfaction and then transformational leadership. The three hierarchical regression models provided evidence for the partial mediating effect of job satisfaction, work engagement and OCB between transformational leadership and employee loyalty. Our findings suggest that managers of home care institutions should adopt a transformational leadership style to motivate home care workers’ job satisfaction, work engagement and OCB. Such an environment not only help retain employee but also attract more young people to join the ranks of the home care profession, which will help solve fundamental short-staffing problems.

It remains uncertain whether diatom and nematode assemblages can reflect the same ecological status in eutrophic reservoirs. To address this uncertainty, we collected diatom and nematode assemblages and measured environmental variables in the tropical eutrophic Tri An Reservoir (TAR) in Vietnam. We assessed the ecological status of each community using various biological metrics, including the Shannon-Weiner diversity index (H′), the Trophic Diatom Index (TDI), and the index of trophic diversity (ITD) of nematodes. Multivariate direct gradient analysis was conducted to determine the environmental variables influencing the dominant diatom and nematode species. We then conducted a nonparametric permutational analysis of variance with two fixed factors to assess differences in all biological variables across communities. The analysis had a cross-sectional design that incorporated "station" and "season" as factors. Our findings indicated that the surface water in the TAR ranges from eutrophic to hypertrophic. Based on these TDI values, we classified the ecological and trophic status of the TAR into two groups: meso-eutrophic and eutrophic. However, the ITD of the nematodes suggested that the ecological status varied from poor to moderate or high. Our findings suggest inconsistency between two bioindicator groups in their ability to reflect surface water quality in the TAR. This study highlights the potential of using the TDI of diatoms and emphasizes the need to revise the H′ and ITD indices of nematodes if they are to be incorporated into lake monitoring programs for assessing ecological status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the effect of solder mask leaching on the electroless Ni(P) plating process was investigated. We found that the chemical leaching promotes the density of the nucleation sites, grain boundaries, and pits forming in the nodule structure of the Ni(P) plating layer. Notably, the solder-mask leaching chemicals greatly degraded the corrosion resistance of the Ni(P) layer. The nodule boundaries of the Ni(P) layer plated with solder mask leaching in the electroless Ni(P) plating solution were corroded and widened after the corrosion test. Tafel electrochemical tests also show that the solder mask leaching chemicals reduce the corrosion potential of the Ni(P) layer. Using gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, 4-(Methylthio) benzaldehyde has been determined to be the chemical compound leaching out of the solder mask in the electroless Ni(P) plating solution. Tafel analysis shows that the corrosion potential of the Ni(P) layer was reduced by 4-(Methylthio)benzaldehyde additive in electroless Ni(P) plating solution. X-ray photoelectron spectrum analysis demonstrates that the P-content in the Ni(P) layer clearly decreases with 4-(Methylthio)benzaldehyde. Thus, we can conclude that the decrease in the corrosion resistance is caused by the P-content decrease in the Ni(P) layer due to the 4-(Methylthio)benzaldehyde additive. Open-circuit-voltage analysis indicates that 4-(Methylthio)benzaldehyde promotes the oxidation of H2PO2− and the reduction of H2PO2−, which therefore reduce the P-content in the Ni(P) layer. Consequently, owing to lower P-content incorporated in the Ni(P) layer, the crystallinity of the Ni(P) layer would be promoted. It has been verified by X-ray diffraction, TEM bright-field images, and selected area diffraction pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress, characterized by the damaging accumulation of free radicals, is associated with various diseases, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders. The transcription factor Nrf2 is pivotal in cellular defense against oxidative stress by regulating genes that detoxify free radicals, thus maintaining redox homeostasis and preventing cellular aging. Keap1 plays a regulatory role through its interaction with Nrf2, ensuring Nrf2 degradation under homeostatic conditions and facilitating its stabilization and nuclear translocation during oxidative stress. In the initial stage of our study, we conducted in vitro assays on HaCaT cells, a human keratinocyte cell line, to measure the expression levels of Nrf2 to reveal the activity of promising medicinal plants, which were then selected for further evaluation. Subsequently, this study leverages in silico techniques, integrating machine learning with molecular docking and dynamics, to screen natural compounds that potentially activate Nrf2. Data from the ChEMBL database were categorized into active and inactive compounds and used for training different machine-learning models to predict potential Nrf2 activators. The best-performing model was used to select compounds for further evaluation via molecular docking and dynamics, assessing their interactions with Keap1/Nrf2. The LC-MS/MS-based chemical profiles also validated the presence of these chemical compounds. This approach underscores the synergy between in vitro bioassays and in silico approaches in identifying Nrf2 activators, offering a cost-effective strategy for drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines racial and ethnic disparities and prevalence in prescription drug misuse, illicit drug use, and the combination of both behaviors in the United States. Using five waves of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH, 2015–2019; n = 276,884), a multinomial logistic regression model estimated the outcomes of prescription drug misuse, illicit drug use, and the combination of both behaviors. Participants' age was considered as an interaction effect. Approximately 5.4%, 2.9%, and 2.5% misused prescription drug, used illicit drug, or had both behaviors, respectively. Compared with White participants, Black (AOR = 0.69, 99.9 CI: 0.61, 0.79) and Asian (AOR = 0.60, 99.9% CI: 0.42, 0.87) participants had significantly lower odds of reporting prescription drug misuse. Individuals who were classified as others had higher odds of reporting illicit drug use (AOR = 1.31; 99.9% CI: 1.05, 1.64), compared with White participants. Black (AOR = 0.40, 99.9% CI: 0.29, 0.56) and Hispanic (AOR = 0.71, 99.9% CI: 0.55, 0.91) participants were significantly less likely to have both prescription drug misuse and illicit drug use behaviors. Interaction analysis showed that Black participants between 18 and 49 years old were less likely to participate in prescription drug misuse. However, Black participants who were 50 years of age or above were more likely to engage in illicit drug use and the combination of both prescription drug misuse and illicit drug use (all p < 0.001). Hispanic adult participants between 18 and 49 years old were more likely to engage in illicit drug use. Successful intervention and cessation programs may consider the cultural and age disparities among different racial and ethnic groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key summary points: Aim: This study examined changes in fruit and vegetable consumption frequency and their associations with cognitive impairment among Chinese older adults. Findings: Older adults who shifted from non-daily to daily consumption of vegetables had lower odds of developing worsening cognitive impairment compared to those who maintained their consumption frequency. However, changes in fruit consumption from daily to non-daily or non-daily to daily were associated with lower probability of deterioration in cognitive health from normal cognitive function to mild–moderate cognitive impairment. Message: Increasing the frequency of vegetable consumption may serve as a preventive strategy for reducing cognitive impairment in older adults. Further research is warranted to explore the potential effects of changes in fruit consumption. Background: Previous research has examined how fruit and vegetable consumption may affect cognitive impairment among older adults. However, knowledge regarding the behavioral change in fruit and vegetable consumption remains limited in the Chinese older adult population. This research aimed to fill the literature gap. Methods: We used data from five waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Study (2005–2018, observations = 18,856 from 11,388 participants) and selected older adult participants (65 years old or above). A behavioral change was defined as a consumption change in the study sample. Cognitive impairment was measured based on the mini-mental state examination. We used the Cox multi-state model as the major statistical analysis. Results: Chinese older adults who transitioned from non-daily to daily consumption of vegetables had lower odds of reporting cognitive impairment deteriorating from normal cognitive function to severe, compared with those who did not change their consumption behavior (HR [hazard ratio] = 0.88, 95% CI 0.80, 0.97; p < 0.05). All transitions in fruit consumption were negatively associated with cognitive changes from normal cognitive function to mild–moderate cognitive impairment. In our additional stratified analysis examining rural–urban disparity, we observed similar significant findings among rural older adults (Vegetable consumption change: HR = 0.83, 95% CI 0.75, 0.93; p < 0.01) but not urban older adults. Conclusion: Behavioral change in consumption of vegetables may affect Chinese older adults' cognitive health. Future interventions should focus on the critical role of behavioral change in vegetable consumption in reducing older adults' cognitive impairment. However, the contradictory findings of fruit consumption warrant further investigation to draw a conclusive claim regarding its benefits for cognitive health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adherence to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) is critical in controlling HIV. Poor medication adherence may lead to higher disease mortality, increased HIV spread, and transmission of drug-resistant strains. Identifying the specific factors that contribute to suboptimal medication adherence in people with HIV is crucial for developing effective, personalized interventions. Methods: This study conducted a cross-sectional analysis by enrolling individuals over 18 years of age with HIV at a single clinic in Taipei, Taiwan, from December 2018 to November 2020. Participants completed a questionnaire that collected demographic data, recreational drug use, comorbidities, and history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS-5) was utilized to assess treatment adherence. A multiple logistic regression model was applied to identify the factors influencing adherence. Results: A total of 831 PWH were included in the analysis. After controlling for demographics, comorbidities, and recreational drug use, independent risk factors associated with poor adherence among PWH include the presence of a depressive disorder (AOR:2·887, 95% CI:1·461-5·703, p = 0·002), a history of acquired gonorrhea (AOR:2·026, 95% CI:1·079 − 3·803, p = 0·028), methamphetamine use within past three months (AOR:2·073, 95% CI:1·172-3·665, p = 0·012), HIV-1 RNA ≥ 40 copies/ml (AOR:5·221, 95% CI:2·976-9·157, p < 0·001) and younger age (AOR:0·959, 95% CI:0·932-0·988, p = 0·006). Conclusions: To enhance HIV treatment adherence, targeted efforts are essential for PWH who are young, have used methamphetamine in the past three months, are experiencing depressive disorders, or have previously acquired gonorrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Health literacy is essential for individuals to access, understand, and utilize information and services to inform health related decisions and actions. As one of the most diagnosed and preventable forms of cancer, skin cancer disease risk can be reduced through preventative behavior. Currently, there is no focused study looking specifically at health literacy and skin cancer. An understanding of how health literacy affects skin cancer-related preventive behaviors can improve current practices in skin cancer prevention. Objective: To systematically identify, synthesize, and summarize findings on the role of health literacy in skin cancers (including cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma), with a focus on preventive behaviors using studies that utilized quantifiable health literacy measurements. Methods: A literature search was performed by searching PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL from inception until September 26, 2023 to identify cross-sectional, case–control, cohort, or randomized controlled studies that investigated the association between health literacy and skin cancer prevention and diagnosis. Results: Health literacy levels varied across geographic regions, specific populations, and ethnicities. Most of the included studies found a positive association between higher health literacy and better skin cancer preventative behaviors. This included sun-protective behaviors such as: wearing sleeved shirts or shirts with collars, using gloves, covering head and face, limiting sun exposure, more sunscreen use, and less sunbathing or indoor tanning. Higher health literacy was associated with increased likelihood to engage in genetic testing and less family influence on health in one study which assessed determinants of interest in skin cancer genetic testing. Another study investigating family communication about skin cancer found that higher health literacy was associated with increased family communication regarding general cancer risk. One sun protection interventional education program was effective at increasing participants' knowledge, awareness of skin cancer risk, willingness to change sun protection, and use of sun protection, but results varied between ethnic groups. Conclusions: Skin cancer-related educational interventions can be effective in improving health literacy and potentially lessen the impact of skin cancer through positive behavior modification, early detection, and disease knowledge and awareness. Interventions need to be tailored to its target population to maximize effectiveness due to the varying baseline of health literacy identified across different geographic and ethnic groups. Protocol Registration PROSPERO CRD42022340826 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the nuanced interplay between self-regulated learning (SRL) and technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) among 192 Taiwanese voluntary pre-service and in-service teachers, seeking to understand how teachers perceive the integration of technology with SRL strategies in science education. The participants were recruited in workshops based on the DECODE model, which demonstrated a micro-unit of evolution incorporated in SRL strategies, involved them in co-reflected, and summarized what they had experienced in technology-enhanced environments. Participants self-reported measures of SRL and TPACK were subjected to path analysis. Results indicated that SRL positively influenced technological pedagogical knowledge (TPK) and technological content knowledge (TCK), subsequently fully mediating the relationship between SRL and TPACK; namely, TCK and TPK acted as mediatory factors. Furthermore, this study delved into teachers' perceptions of technology-enhanced instruction and SRL through their responses in workshops. We identified five main themes through thematic analysis. The findings highlighted the pivotal role of technology in cultivating interactive learning environments, offering real-time feedback, and integrating multimedia into teaching. Teachers' perceptions were expanded and refined after demonstrating a micro-unit with SRL strategies and subsequent reflective prompts. Participants acknowledged the imperative of teacher preparation in effectively leveraging technology and emphasized the crucial role of adaptive scaffolding in promoting SRL strategies. In summary, these findings present a viable path for augmenting teachers' TPACK through SRL and provides insights into teachers' perceptions of technology-enhanced SRL. The study has implication on the potential of the DECODE model and incorporation of SRL strategies for science educator's professional development of TPACK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) is a risk factor for lung cancer. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of PM2.5 exposure on lung cancer progression. We found that short‐term exposure to PM2.5 for 24 h activated the EGFR pathway in lung cancer cells (EGFR wild‐type and mutant), while long‐term exposure of lung cancer cells to PM2.5 for 90 days persistently promoted EGFR activation, cell proliferation, anchorage‐independent growth, and tumor growth in a xenograft mouse model in EGFR‐driven H1975 cancer cells. We showed that PM2.5 activated AhR to translocate into the nucleus and promoted EGFR activation. AhR further interacted with the promoter of TMPRSS2, thereby upregulating TMPRSS2 and IL18 expression to promote cancer progression. Depletion of TMPRSS2 in lung cancer cells suppressed anchorage‐independent growth and xenograft tumor growth in mice. The expression levels of TMPRSS2 were found to correlate with nuclear AhR expression and with cancer stage in lung cancer patient tissue. Long‐term exposure to PM2.5 could promote tumor progression in lung cancer through activation of EGFR and AhR to enhance the TMPRSS2‐IL18 pathway.

Abstract Smart cities around the world are seeking effective ways to recycle waste. A smart recycling service system is a new recycling method that allows people to engage in environmental protection. Previous studies on recycling have only focused on environmental concerns. Whether public intention to use smart recycling is influenced by environmental concern or perceived playfulness has yet to be explored. Therefore, this study proposes a modified technology acceptance model to discuss the impact of perceived playfulness and environmental concern on public intention to use smart recycling systems. We adopted the maximum likelihood estimation method as the measurement model for this study. The results show that both environmental concern and perceived playfulness motivate people to use smart recycling systems. However, perceived playfulness impacts public intention more than environmental concern and had the most significant impact among the four factors discussed in this study. Therefore, when seeking to improve and promote smart recycling systems, the focus should shift to promoting public intention to use and enhance their environmentally-friendly behavior in a playful way. This study provides new insights into the improvement of smart recycling systems and the implications for promoting them.

Purpose of review: This review aims to describe the association of integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbs into conventional medicine (CM) in preventing breast cancer and improving survival rates among breast cancer patients of Taiwan. Recent findings: Of 7 relevant studies, spanning 2014–2023, 4 investigated breast cancer risk in women with menopausal symptoms and other comorbidities. All 4 reported that TCM herbal use was associated with lower risks of developing breast cancer. Three studies investigated survival in newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients receiving CM. All reported that adjunctive TCM users had lower mortality rates than CM-only patients. However, the heterogeneity of study designs, populations, and interventions may limit the generalizability and robustness of the findings. Summary: TCM herbs may promote breast cancer prevention and survival when used alongside CM. More rigorous observational research and clinical trials in specific patient populations are needed to guide clinical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Brief rationale: Zoledronic acid treatment against osteoporosis is limited by APR. Main result: Combination therapy (hydrocortisone plus non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, and prednisolone) reduced intolerable APR levels and provided complete symptom relief in most patients. Significance of the paper: Combination therapy can enhance patient outcomes in osteoporosis management. Purpose: Osteoporosis is a common condition associated with high morbidity rates, often requiring treatment with bisphosphonates such as zoledronic acid. However, the persistence to zoledronic acid infusion is commonly limited by acute phase response (APR). This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a novel combination therapy in preventing APR symptoms. Methods: A retrospective case–control study was conducted on 931 patients who received their first zoledronic acid infusion between 2011 and 2021. We evaluated the efficacy of combination therapy comprising a single dose of hydrocortisone prior to the infusion and a 3-d oral regimen of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, and prednisolone following the infusion. Patients were divided into protocol (receiving combination therapy) and control groups (without treatment). Baseline characteristics, APR incidence, and the efficacy of symptom control were compared between groups using Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test. Results: There was no difference in APR incidence between the protocol (n = 507) and control group (n = 407; p = 0.1442). However, the protocol group exhibited lower intolerable APR levels (3.72% vs. 16.71%; p < 0.0001) and complete symptom relief in 96.28% of cases. Conclusion: The combination therapy protocol effectively reduced intolerable APR and relieved symptoms in most patients following zoledronic acid infusion. This study highlights the importance of proactive management strategies for APR and emphasizes the potential of combination therapy in alleviating APR symptoms and reducing the occurrence of severe APR in patients undergoing osteoporosis management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pneumoconiosis is associated with pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases; however, the link between pneumoconiosis and sleep disorders is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the connection between pneumoconiosis and subsequent risk of sleep disorders. Methods: This population-based retrospective cohort study used data from the National Health Insurance database in Taiwan. The pneumoconiosis cohort consisted of 13,329 patients newly diagnosed between 2000 and 2015. The comparison group included 53,316 age-, sex-, and diagnosis date-matched individuals without pneumoconiosis. The development of sleep disorders was monitored until the end of 2018. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used for risk assessment. Results: The incidence of sleep disorders was 1.31 times higher in the pneumoconiosis cohort than in the comparison cohort (22.8 vs. 16.2 per 1000 person-years). After controlling for age, sex, comorbidity, and medication, the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) was 1.24 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.17–1.32). Stratified analyses by age group, sex, and comorbidity status showed significant associations between pneumoconiosis and sleep disorders (aHRs, 1.19–1.64). In addition, patients with pneumoconiosis had a significantly increased risk of developing sleep apnea (aHR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.31–2.22). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that patients with pneumoconiosis are at a higher risk of developing sleep disorders and sleep apnea. Healthcare professionals should pay close attention to sleep quality and disturbances in patients with pneumoconiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract ACE2 on epithelial cells is the SARS‐CoV‐2 entry receptor. Single‐cell RNA‐sequencing data derived from two COVID‐19 cohorts revealed that MAP4K3/GLK‐positive epithelial cells were increased in patients. SARS‐CoV‐2‐induced GLK overexpression in epithelial cells was correlated with COVID‐19 severity and vesicle secretion. GLK overexpression induced the epithelial cell‐derived exosomes containing ACE2; the GLK‐induced exosomes transported ACE2 proteins to recipient cells, facilitating pseudovirus infection. Consistently, ACE2 proteins were increased in the serum exosomes from another COVID‐19 cohort. Remarkably, SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein‐stimulated GLK, and GLK stabilized ACE2 in epithelial cells. Mechanistically, GLK phosphorylated ACE2 at two serine residues (Ser776, Ser783), leading to the dissociation of ACE2 from its E3 ligase UBR4. Reduction in UBR4‐induced Lys48‐linked ubiquitination at three lysine residues (Lys26, Lys112, Lys114) of ACE2 prevented its degradation. Furthermore, SARS‐CoV‐2 pseudovirus or live virus infection in humanized ACE2 mice induced GLK and ACE2 protein levels, and ACE2‐containing exosomes. Collectively, ACE2 stabilization by SARS‐CoV‐2‐induced MAP4K3/GLK may contribute to the pathogenesis of COVID‐19.

This study reports the successful aquaculture of narrow-barred Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson). Two successful artificial fertilization trials were conducted in April and May 2023 on board fishing vessels, achieving fertilization rates of 96.67 ± 1.92% and 91.11 ± 1.11%, respectively. Larviculture and juvenile grow-out were subsequently performed for each egg batch in ponds. Newly hatched larvae had an average total length (TL) of 2.28 ± 0.17 mm, exhibiting feeding behavior by 3 days post hatch (dph), with a mouth gape of 664.71 ± 16.33 µm. At 21 dph, juveniles reached an average TL of 33.87 ± 3.35 mm. The larvae were initially fed Eleutheronema tetradactylum larvae, transitioning to minced fish at 20 dph. TL growth from hatching to 37 dph was described using an exponential model (TL = 6.65e 0.07 dph), which accounted for 95.30% of the variance in the dataset. At 150 dph, one individual (54.5 cm, 1.07 kg) developed testes, and at 350 dph, another individual (62.3 cm, 2.20 kg) displayed developed ovaries. The survival rates from hatching to juveniles were 0.17% (at 38 dph) for the first culture batch and 0.23% (at 48 dph) for the second batch. The results of this study contribute valuable foundational information for future developments of S. commerson aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant cell culture has multiple applications in biotechnology and horticulture, from plant propagation to the production of high-value biomolecules. However, the interplay between cellular diversity and ambient conditions influences the metabolism of cultured tissues; understanding these factors in detail will inform efforts to optimize culture conditions. This study presents multiomics datasets from callus cultures of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), rice (Oryza sativa), and two bamboo species (Phyllostachys nigra and P. bambusoides). Over four weeks, calli were cultured under continuous moisture without airflow or gradually reduced ambient moisture with airflow. For each sample, gene expression was profiled with high-throughput RNA sequencing, 442 metabolites were measured using liquid chromatography (LC) with triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC–QqQMS), and 31 phytohormones were quantified using ultra-performance LC coupled with a tandem quadrupole mass spectrometer equipped with an electrospray interface (UPLC-ESI-qMS/MS) and ultra-high-performance LC–orbitrap MS (UHPLC-Orbitrap MS). These datasets highlight the impact of airflow on callus cultures, revealing differences between and within species, and provide a comprehensive resource to explore the physiology of callus growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of deep learning has revolutionized medical image processing, including analyzing whole slide images (WSIs). Despite the demonstrated potential for characterizing gene mutations directly from WSIs in certain cancers, challenges remain due to image resolution and reliance on manual annotations for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We, therefore, propose a deep learning model based on multiple instance learning (MIL) with ensemble techniques to predict gene mutations from AML WSIs. Our model predicts NPM1 mutations and FLT3-ITD without requiring patch-level or cell-level annotations. Using a dataset of 572 WSIs, the largest database with both WSI and genetic mutation information, our model achieved an AUC of 0.90 ± 0.08 for NPM1 and 0.80 ± 0.10 for FLT3-ITD in the testing cohort. Additionally, we found that blasts are pivotal indicators for gene mutation predictions, with their proportions varying between mutated and standard WSIs, highlighting the clinical potential of AML WSI analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Heterozygous mutations in the insulin gene can give rise to a monogenic diabetes syndrome due to toxic misfolding of the variant proinsulin in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of pancreatic β-cells. Clinical mutations are widely distributed in the sequence (86 amino acids). Misfolding induces chronic ER stress and interferes in trans with wildtype biosynthesis and secretion. In the present work we sought to study relative folding efficiencies of proinsulin variants in relation to age of disease onset. Methods: To enable efficient preparation of non-foldable variants, we developed a four-segment native chemical-ligation scheme that exploits two native cysteines (CysB19 and CysA6; residues 19 and 71 in proinsulin) and an alanine in the connecting domain (AlaC20; residue 50). From N- to C terminus, the four segments have respective lengths 18, 31, 22 and 15 residues—convenient to “mix and match” native and variant synthetic segments as a platform technology. Results: Folding of the reduced and unfolded polypeptides was investigated under three conditions: pH 10.6 (which promotes disulfide pairing as in the pharmaceutical manufacture of insulin) and pH 7.4 in the absence or presence of “foldase” protein disulfide isomerase. Whereas wild-type proinsulin efficiently folds to form a single dominant product (in accordance with classical studies), the clinical variants exhibited marked impairment, especially at neutral pH. Conclusion: Among representative clinical variants, relative folding yields correlated with both degree of ER stress in cell culture and ages of clinical diabetes onset (neonatal, adolescence or adulthood). Implications for the native mechanism of nascent protein folding are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: For people living with diabetes, effective glucose monitoring is a key component in diabetes care, helping to reduce disease burden, complications, and healthcare utilization. Sensor-based glucose monitoring systems, which can provide more comprehensive information about glucose levels than capillary-based self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), are becoming established among people living with diabetes. The objective of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of glucose monitoring with FreeStyle Libre systems, compared with SMBG, from the perspective of a Canadian private payer. Methods: The analysis used the validated, person-level microsimulation model DEDUCE (Determination of Diabetes Utilities, Costs, and Effects). Analyses were conducted separately for populations of people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T1DM; T2DM), with time horizons of 40 and 25 years, respectively. T2DM treatment was assumed to be 84% non-insulin, 10% basal insulin, and 6% multiple daily injections of insulin. The effect of FreeStyle Libre was modeled as reductions versus SMBG in glycated hemoglobin level (T1DM, − 0.42%; insulin-treated T2DM, − 0.59%; non-insulin-treated T2DM, − 0.3%) and in acute diabetic events (hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis). Costs (in 2023 Canadian dollars (Can$)) and utilities were discounted at 1.5%. Outcomes were assessed as costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Results: In both populations, FreeStyle Libre was dominant to SMBG, providing more QALYs at a lower cost (T1DM: + 1.25 QALYs, − Can$32,287 costs; T2DM: + 0.48 QALYs, − Can$8091 costs). Reductions were seen in the cumulative incidence of all complications (except blindness in the T1DM analysis). FreeStyle Libre was dominant to SMBG in all scenarios tested. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that FreeStyle Libre had a 100% probability of being dominant to SMBG for T1DM and a 91% probability of being dominant for T2DM. Conclusion: This economic analysis shows that, from a Canadian private payer perspective, FreeStyle Libre is cost-effective compared with SMBG for all people living with diabetes. Plain Language Summary: Glucose monitoring is important for people living with diabetes. Effective glucose monitoring can reduce the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), diabetic ketoacidosis (a potentially life-threatening complication which occurs when the body has low insulin and high blood sugar levels), and long-term complications. This can be done using finger sticks and test strips or sensor-based devices such as the FreeStyle Libre systems. In this study, we modeled the effect of FreeStyle Libre use in persons living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus in Canada using the DEDUCE economic model. In both analyses, FreeStyle Libre use was predicted to lead to better outcomes (measured as quality-adjusted life years—a measure of health which combines life expectancy with quality of life) for people living with diabetes while reducing costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the deformation features of steep overhanging anti-dip slopes based on their scale, the rock layer thickness, and the unsupported length. Centrifuge tests were performed for various configurations of simplified overhanging anti-dip slopes. The steep overhanging anti-dip slopes expressed flexural and block toppling behavior in all of the centrifuge tests in this study. The toppling is a progressive behavior: firstly, the shallow rock layers deform slightly as the deformation starts. Afterward, the deformed rock layers toppled, and the rock layers behind them deformed insignificantly. In terms of the scale effect, increasing the slope scale could raise the toppled and deformed zone of the overhanging anti-dip slope. As the unsupported length of the slope is long, the deformation behavior tends to be flexural toppling. When the rock layer thickness increases, the deformation behavior is similar to block or block-flexure toppling. A normalized bending stiffness (K’) is then proposed in this study to discuss the deformation behaviors from material mechanics viewpoints. We found that the K’ is related to the toppling behavior of the overhanging anti-dip slopes. With a small K’ value, the rock layers in an overhanging anti-dip slope deformed close to a flexural toppling. A much smaller K’ value was also obtained for an actual flexural toppling case. Therefore, the findings indicated that the deformability of an overhanging anti-dip slope could be analyzed from a material mechanics viewpoint, and the deformation characteristics depend highly on its normalized bending stiffness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationship among the wildfires, climate, and humans and their combined impact on the Dongyuan Lake in southern Taiwan using a sediment core that covered the last 1850 cal years BP. Charcoal accumulation rate (CHAR) peaks, low total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), TOC/TN ratios, and carbon isotopic composition (δ13Corg), combined with low sedimentation rate (SR) and silt dominance suggested a loss of organic carbon, no or low runoff and soil instability due to wildfires during 1850–1700, 1600–1450, and 1350–1100 cal years BP. This led to silt dominance, further indicating drier climatic conditions. Two intermittent wet phases during 1700–1600 and 1450–1350 cal years BP, indicated by high TOC, TN, TOC/TN ratios, and δ13Corg, suggested peatland formation. After 1100 cal years BP, increased runoff, and organic matter accumulation indicated peatification, suggesting wetter conditions characterized by higher TOC, TN, TOC/TN ratios, δ13Corg, and SR. Wetter periods continued, but the appearance of diatoms indicated shallow water levels during 750–500 cal years BP and from 350 cal years BP to the present. CHAR peaks suggest wildfire activity, and combined with archaeological evidence, this implies human-induced burning during these periods. The variation in pH and nutrient dynamics (indicated by PCA analysis of diatoms) were closely linked to wildfire intensity and frequency. Infrequent wildfires (750–500 cal years BP) caused lake acidification, while frequent fires (350 cal years BP to present) raised pH. In the past 150 years, human activities, mainly deforestation and acid rain, have contributed to lake acidification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital therapy has gained popularity in the mental health field because of its convenience and accessibility. One major benefit of digital therapy is its ability to address therapist shortages. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Digital therapy is an important resource for individuals with PTSD who may not have access to traditional in-person therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are two evidence-based psychotherapies that have shown efficacy in treating PTSD. This paper examines the mechanisms and clinical symptoms of PTSD as well as the principles and applications of CBT and EMDR. Additionally, the potential of digital therapy, including internet-based CBT, video conferencing-based therapy, and exposure therapy using augmented and virtual reality, is explored. This paper also discusses the engineering techniques employed in digital psychotherapy, such as emotion detection models and text analysis, for assessing patients' emotional states. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges faced in digital therapy, including regulatory issues, hardware limitations, privacy and security concerns, and effectiveness considerations. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of digital psychotherapy for PTSD treatment and highlights the opportunities and challenges in this rapidly evolving field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver and vanadium phosphorus oxide are well known for catalytic activity for benzaldehyde production. Silver also enables the electrochemical oxidation of alcohol. Here, we report the catalytic characterization of Ag/VPO/TiO2 nanostructures for selective benzaldehyde production and oxidation of alcohols. The catalyst composition includes 13.5 wt.% vanadium phosphorus oxide (VPO) and 10 wt.% silver nanoparticles embedded on titanium oxide nanotubes to form nanostructures with flake morphology. In the benzaldehyde production reaction, the mass of VPO was reduced without affecting the conversion efficiency of toluene and styrene of VPO when incorporated with TiO2. Remarkably, the introduction of Ag to the catalyst significantly promoted the conversion of toluene and styrene, which is believed to be due to the ability of Ag to enhance the bond breaking of the H2O2 reagent and the transition compounds. On the other hand, the cyclic voltammetry results revealed that Ag and VPO were both active components for methanol and ethanol oxidation in alkaline medium. The results highlight the ability of Ag to improve the catalytic activity in alcohol oxidation and the benefits of using multi-site catalysts that can be applied for more than one reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anti-IgLON5 disease is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder with prominent Tau protein deposits in the brainstem and hypothalamus. The aim of this study was to visualize the in vivo distribution patterns of Tau protein in patients with anti-IgLON5 disease using the second-generation Tau PET tracer, Florzolotau (18F) PET imaging. Methods: Patients diagnosed with anti-IgLON5 disease were enrolled consecutively. Age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) were also enrolled. The uptake of Florzolotau (18F) and 18F-FDG was assessed using both visual and semi-quantitative analysis techniques. Results: A total of 10 patients with anti-IgLON5 disease and 40 HCs were included in the study. All ten patients with anti-IgLON5 disease underwent Florzolotau (18F) PET scans, and five of them underwent 18F-FDG PET scans. Twenty HCs underwent Florzolotau (18F) PET scans, and the remaining 20 HCs underwent 18F-FDG PET scans. In patients with anti-IgLON5 disease, significant uptake of Florzolotau (18F) was observed predominantly in the midbrain, pons, cerebellum, caudate, and putamen. This uptake pattern was notably absent in the control group. Moreover, semi-quantitative analysis techniques demonstrated widespread hypometabolism in the cerebral cortex in patients with anti-IgLON5 disease. Conclusions: This study indicates distinct Tau protein deposition patterns in patients with anti-IgLON5 disease, potentially serving as imaging biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open-type check dams are effective in mitigating sediment-related disasters in mountain regions. Unlike closed-type dams, they do not interrupt sediment transport or ecological continuity. This work reports on flume experiments that explored sediment trapping by truss and beam check dams, focusing on the impact of the relative spacing between the trusses or beams on sediment capture. We assessed the ability of adjustable check dams to preserve a dynamic sediment equilibrium by modifying the truss or beam spacing. Experiments with various gravel sizes and truss or beam spacings revealed that a smaller spacing results in a significant reduction in the proportion of sediment passing through the dam, whereas a larger spacing facilitates sediment transport through the dam. The two dam types showed different behaviors. Beams were more effective than trusses in trapping sediment, particularly at relative spacings of between 1.5 and 2.3, with the difference in sediment retention between the two types of dam reaching 43%. A practical case study of an adjustable beam check dam on Dongzhuang Stream in southern Taiwan illustrated the applicability of our research, where sediment management was notably enhanced following adjustments to the dam structure. The flexible operation of open-type, adjustable beam check dams presents a promising approach for sustainable sediment control in fluvial systems, enabling a balance between disaster mitigation and ecological conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to study the boundedness of solutions of the Chern-Simons-Higgs equation ∂ t w - Δ λ w = w 2 β 2 - w 2 w - 1 2 β 2 - w 2 2 w in R × R N and system ∂ t u - Δ λ u = u 2 1 - u 2 - γ v 2 u - 1 2 1 - u 2 - γ v 2 2 u in R × R N , ∂ t v - Δ λ v = v 2 1 - v 2 - γ u 2 v - 1 2 1 - v 2 - γ u 2 2 v in R × R N , where γ > 0 , β is a bounded continuous function and Δ λ is the strongly degenerate operator defined by Δ λ : = ∑ i = 1 N ∂ x i λ i 2 ∂ x i . Under some general hypotheses of λ i , we shall establish some boundedness properties of solutions of the equation and system above. Our result can be seen as an extension of that in [Li, Yayun; Lei, Yutian, Boundedness for solutions of equations of the Chern-Simons-Higgs type. Appl. Math. Lett.88(2019), 8-12.]. In addition, we provide a simple proof of the boundedness of solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the perceptual sciences, there is an ongoing debate about the depth of unconscious processing. Here, we address this issue by implementing three improvements with regards to paradigm, stimuli and analyses to explore the neural correlates of unconscious face processing. Our results demonstrated that conscious faces elicited broader univariate activations than conscious scenes. Such results were absent when faces/scenes were suppressed and invisible (n = 43). However, further whole-brain multivariate classification revealed that both static and dynamic invisible faces could be distinguished from scenes in the occipital-temporal region. ROI analysis showed that bilateral FFA and OFA could differentiate dynamic invisible faces from dynamic invisible scenes. These findings suggest that interocularly suppressed faces are still processed in-depth in the ventral visual stream. Therefore, our study highlights the importance of optimizing stimulus signal, experimental paradigm, and analysis to extract unconscious signals in the brain. With the implementation of sophisticated analyses and stimuli, facial information Can be decoded under unconscious conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various prediction models have been developed for extremity metastasis and sarcoma. This systematic review aims to evaluate extremity metastasis and sarcoma models using the utility prediction model (UPM) evaluation framework. Methods: We followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane to identify articles presenting original prediction models with 1-year survival outcome for extremity metastasis and 5-year survival outcome for sarcoma. Identified models were assessed using the UPM score (0–16), categorized as excellent (12–16), good (7–11), fair (3–6), or poor (0–2). A total of 5 extremity metastasis and 94 sarcoma models met inclusion criteria and were analyzed for design, validation, and performance. Results: We assessed 5 models for extremity metastasis and 94 models for sarcoma. Only 4 out of 99 (4%) models achieved excellence, 1 from extremity metastasis and 3 from sarcoma. The majority were rated good (62%; 61/99), followed by fair (31%, 31/99) and poor (3%, 3/99). Conclusions: Most predictive models for extremity metastasis and sarcoma fall short of UPM excellence. Suboptimal study design, limited external validation, and the infrequent availability of web-based calculators are main drawbacks. Level of evidence: This study is classified as Level 2a evidence according to the Oxford 2011 Levels of Evidence. Trial registration This study was registered in PROSEPRO (CRD42022373391, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=373391). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) impairs anti-pathogen and anti-tumour immunity. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) modulate immunity via IDO but also suppress IFN-γ. While MSC IDO induction by IFN-γ is established, other drivers in this immunosuppressive setting remain unknown. Methods: Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with IDO or IL-10RA knockdown were co-cultured with healthy donor T cells to assess immunosuppression. PDAC organoid anticancer activity was also tested in these co-cultures. Results: Co-culturing MSCs with T cells in an IL-10RA-enriched environment enhances IDO expression, resulting in T cell suppression. Moreover, IL-10RA-positive MSCs collected from co-cultures with IL-10 supplementation show increased IDO expression. Conversely, MSCs with IL-10RA knockdown exhibit a significant reduction in IDO RNA and protein expression, as well as STAT3 phosphorylation status, which is a known upstream signalling pathway in IDO gene regulation, in T cell co-cultures. Down-regulation of IL-10RA also inhibits IDO activity in MSCs, resulting in reduced T cell suppression, and enabling the co-cultured T cells to kill PDAC organoids. Conclusion: Our research reveals IL-10RA as a pharmacological target in stromal cells for enhancing T cell-mediated PDAC eradication by downregulating IDO via blocked IL-10/IL-10RA signalling in MSCs. This advances IL-10RA interference in the tumour microenvironment (TME) to restore T cell cytotoxicity against cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In hospitalized patients, acute kidney injury (AKI) is an important adverse event associated with high mortality and medical costs. Accurate diagnosis and timely management of AKI are essential for improving the outcomes of in-hospital AKI, and delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis hinders advancements in AKI care. To ameliorate this problem, several electronic AKI alert systems have been proposed but have shown inconsistent effects on AKI outcomes. Before electronic systems can improve AKI outcomes, it is important to confirm their diagnostic accuracy. The purposes of the present study were to establish an easy-to-construct computerized algorithm for the diagnosis of renal impairment and to test its accuracy. The present study retrospectively included 1551 patients hospitalized in Wanfang Hospital with serum creatinine (SCr) levels > 1.3 mg/dL. A computerized algorithm was constructed to identify AKI events and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in these patients. Previous SCr tests were reviewed to define baseline SCr levels. A SCr level increased > 1.5 times from baseline was defined as AKI. An estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 for > 90 days was defined as CKD. Discharge diagnoses made by the attending physicians were defined as “clinician’s diagnoses.” The researcher’s diagnoses, made by experienced nephrologists according to the same criteria, were the gold standard to which the computerized algorithms and the clinician’s diagnoses were compared. The diagnoses made by the computerized algorithm and clinician were compared with the researcher’s diagnoses to define their accuracy. Among the included patients, the mean age was 73.0 years; in-hospital mortality was 14.8%, and AKI was present in 28.6% of patients. Regarding the diagnostic accuracy for AKI, the computerized algorithm achieved a sensitivity of 85.6% and a specificity of 98.8%. The main cause of false-negative (FN) AKI diagnosis was AKI occurring prior to the outpatient visit, before the indexed hospitalization. Regarding the diagnostic accuracy for CKD, the computerized algorithm achieved a sensitivity of 94.7% and specificity of 100%. The main cause of FN CKD diagnosis was the lack of previous eGFR records. The computerized algorithm exhibited significantly superior accuracy compared to the clinician’s diagnoses for both AKI (95.0% vs. 57.0%) and CKD (96.5% vs. 73.6%). We developed a simple and easy-to-construct computerized algorithm for the diagnosis of renal impairment that demonstrated significantly improved diagnostic accuracy for AKI and CKD compared to that of clinicians. In the future, an algorithmic approach for the differential diagnosis of AKI and a decision guide should be incorporated into this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise position and geometry of a fault and the recognition of contemporary active strands are pivotal elements for formulating regulations for earthquake fault zones and fault setbacks. The western frontal escarpment toe of the Coastal Range in Tapo, eastern Taiwan is commonly considered as the plausible location of the N18°E-trending, east-dipping Chihshang creeping seismogenic fault. Frontal collapse and flattening of reverse faulting, in addition to fluviation and landslide have complicated the process for defining the Chihshang fault configuration. We used a multidisciplinary approach, combining site investigation, geological core analysis and correlation, resistivity prospecting, and inclinometer monitoring, to illuminate the subsurface structure and deformation of the leading edge of the Chihshang fault at Tapo Elementary School. We found that (1) the Chihshang main fault is a contact of alluvium deposits and the mudstone of Lichi mélange, and has a dip angle of approximately 77° within the resistivity gradation zone 55 m east of the toe of the geomorphic escarpment; (2) it has a 2-year cumulative horizontal displacement of 20.7 mm northwestward and continuously creeps without seasonal variation; and (3) the active deformation on the escarpment results from a combined effect of fault creeping and slow gravity sliding of the mass which is steadily supplied by the Chihshang reserve faulting. A mechanism of faulting-relay landsliding is proposed to understand the active deformation on the escarpment. Great caution is needed in the interpretation of the aseismic surface ruptures along the inferred trace of reverse creeping faults as fault branching. Highlights: The Chihshang fault with a dip angle of 77° is located 55 m east of the escarpment toe, which was once thought to be fault trace in Tapo. The fault has a left-lateral slip rate of 8.2 mm/year and a transverse slip rate of 6.4 mm/year and continuously creeps without seasonal variation. A mechanism of faulting-relay landsliding is proposed to interpret the active deformation on the escarpment at Tapo Elementary School. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on filial piety, a fundamental psychological factor in Vietnam and its relationship with religiosity and attitudes toward abortion. Drawing on data from 656 participants, the research employed the Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method and identified significant differences in intrinsic religiosity (IR) based on various forms of cohabitation with parents. Furthermore, the findings revealed a positive association between age and religiosity. Higher levels of IR were linked to more conservative attitudes toward abortion (AAS), whereas greater premarital sexual permissiveness (PSP) was associated with more pro-choice views. Filial piety played a mediating role in the relationship between IR and AAS. These insights offer a deeper understanding of how religiosity and filial piety influence abortion attitudes among individuals in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Rural communities face healthcare challenges. This study assessed a multicomponent intervention to improve hospital visits and anti-osteoporosis medication (AOM) treatment rates. A total of 567 patients were randomized into three groups. Results showed significant improvements in hospital attendance and AOM treatment in intervention groups compared to usual care group. Purpose: Rural communities face limited healthcare access, financial constraints, and transportation barriers leading to health disparities. This study examined interventions that reduced health disparities in increasing the outpatient attendance and treatment rate of anti-osteoporosis medication (AOM), while identifying factors contributing to therapy refusal in rural communities. Methods: A total of 567 patients were randomized at the community level into three groups: multicomponent integrated care (MIC), osteoporosis care only (OC), and usual care (UC). Fracture Risk Assessment Tool and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans were used to evaluate the osteoporosis and osteoporotic fracture risk. High- and moderate-risk patients were advised to pursue further hospital-based assessments and treatment. Both the MIC and OC groups received five interventions to address rural barriers, including specialist access, disease education, overcoming transportation barriers, peer support, and dedicated case managers. However, UC excluded transportation assistance, peer support, and case management. Outcomes measured included outpatient attendance, AOM treatment rates, and factors affecting hospital assessment refusal, analyzed via multivariable logistic modeling. Results: In the MIC group, 73.3% of patients attended the outpatient clinic and 58.6% received AOM. In the OC group, 81% patients attended and 69.3% received AOM. Conversely, in the UC group, only 4.1% attended and received AOM. Significant differences in attendance and AOM rates were found between the MIC and UC groups and between the OC and UC groups (p <.001 for both). Common barriers included beliefs that treatment was unnecessary and lack of hospital access. Risk factors hindering outpatient attendance include male sex, low education, low budget, multiple disabilities, and osteopenia diagnosis. Conclusion: Addressing transportation barriers and implementing dedicated case management are crucial for improving healthcare access among rural patients. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05104034. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The optimal timing for administering dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) post-coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains a subject of debate. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of early DAPT administration within 6 h post-CABG, following the implementation of a new standard operating procedure (SOP). This study was conducted in three phases at the National Heart Institute of Malaysia. Phase 1 involved a clinical audit of 80 isolated CABG patients to evaluate current DAPT practices. Phase 2 was a pilot study involving 320 patients to establish criteria for early DAPT initiation. Phase 3 comprised a prospective cohort analysis comparing outcomes between 939 propensity-matched pairs receiving early/new SOP (< 6 h) and late/old SOP (> 6 h) DAPT. Results: The clinical audit revealed a mean DAPT administration time of 18.3 h post-CABG, highlighting variability in practice. The pilot study demonstrated that early DAPT was associated with a significantly lower chest reopening rate (0.8% vs. 21.6%) under stringent selection criteria. In the follow-up study, early DAPT was linked to reduced rates of postoperative stroke (1.0% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.013), dialysis (5.5% vs. 7.0%, p < 0.001), and chest reoperation (6.5% vs. 9.0%, p = 0.045). Despite a higher transfusion rate in the early DAPT group (76.0% vs. 43.6%, p < 0.001), ICU stays and hospitalization durations were not prolonged. Mortality rates were lower in the early DAPT group (3.2% vs. 4.6%), although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.123). Conclusions: Guided by stringent clinical criteria, early DAPT administration within 6 h post-CABG is a feasible and effective strategy for reducing adverse outcomes, such as stroke and dialysis requirements, while maintaining manageable bleeding risks. Future research should explore long-term graft patency, refine transfusion protocols, and assess the broader applicability of this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) is a halophyte and an inducible CAM plant. Ice plant seedlings display moderate salt tolerance, with root growth unaffected by 200 mM NaCl treatments, though hypocotyl elongation is hindered in salt-stressed etiolated seedlings. Superoxide anion accumulation was prominent in cotyledons and primary leaves but decreased in root tissues over time, with no significant effect from salt treatment. Hydrogen peroxide levels initially surged in both control and salt-treated seedlings, with higher and more persistent accumulation in the salt-treated seedlings. The activities of H2O2-scavenging ascorbate-glutathione cycle enzymes ascorbate peroxidase (APX), monodehydroascorbate reductase, and dehydroascorbate reductase increased, while guaiacol-dependent peroxidase activity decreased and catalase activity showed no change, indicating APX activity as the primary response to salt stress. Salt-induced APX activities were detected mainly in the microsomal fraction for light-grown seedlings and the cytosolic fraction for etiolated seedlings, highlighting plastids as the primary site of ROS accumulation under salt stress. An RNA-seq analysis of etiolated seedlings revealed about 8% unigenes showing more than a four-fold change in expression after a 6-h 200 mM NaCl treatment. GO enrichment analysis indicated that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with increased transcript abundance were associated with ion transport, antioxidant activity, and stress responses, while DEGs with decreased transcript abundance were linked to metabolic and biosynthesis processes such as ribosomal protein synthesis and cell wall formation. This indicates that salt stress hinders growth but enhances ion homeostasis and stress response mechanisms. The expression of all eight APX genes were induced by a 48-hour salt treatment, with varying expression patterns. For class III peroxidase family, 14 out of 53 identified unigenes qualified as DEGs. The time-course expression patterns revealed that the transcript levels of McPrx4.1, McPrx12.1, and McPrx12.3 increased, while McPrx60.3 decreased. These findings highlight the distinct roles of class III peroxidases in balancing plant growth and stress responses, advancing our understanding of the mechanisms behind salt tolerance in halophytes. This study comprehensively analyzed changes in gene expression, antioxidant enzyme activity, and ROS accumulation in ice plant seedlings. Unveiling these responses will advance our understanding of the growth–stress balance in the intrinsic salt tolerance in halophytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute bronchiolitis (AB) is the most common lower respiratory tract infection in infants. Clinician diagnosis and management vary due to limited objective assessment tools. Point-of-care lung ultrasound (LUS) offers a promising diagnostic and prognostic tool in the emergency department (ED), however, the time to perform LUS is of concern in the emergency setting. Methods: Infants ≤ 12 months diagnosed with AB in the emergency department were enrolled. Two LUS techniques were performed sequentially: a 12-segment "lawnmower" approach and a posterior paravertebral "waterfall" technique. LUS were scored (0–36 for lawnmower; 0–6 for waterfall). Respiratory support (RS) was categorized into three levels: no RS (room air), low RS (wall O2 or heated high flow nasal cannula < 1L/kg), and high RS (heated high flow nasal cannula ≥ 1L/kg or positive pressure). Clinical data, including RS at 12 and 24 h, maximum RS, disposition, and length of stay, were extracted via chart review and compared to mean LUS scores for each technique. Calculated areas under the curve (AUC) were compared using the Youden Index (J). Results: 82 infants were enrolled. The mean waterfall scanning time was 1.65 min (SD 0.55) compared to the lawnmower's 7.65 min (SD 1.45). The difference between mean LUS scores for the waterfall technique was statistically significant for all disposition comparisons and nearly all RS comparisons. While the lawnmower AUC was greater than the waterfall AUC for all RS and disposition comparisons, the Youden Index (J) was statistically significantly different for only two of the eight comparisons. Conclusion: The posterior-only LUS technique is faster than the lawnmower technique, provides comparable information for disposition, and has a stronger association with LOS, but is less associated with RS. The waterfall technique may be a suitable alternative to more time-intensive, thorough techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is one of the most critical global health threats, as the second most common cancer and leading cause of cancer deaths globally. While smoking is the primary risk factor, an increasing number of cases occur in nonsmokers, with lung cancer in nonsmokers (LCNS) now recognized as the fifth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Recent evidence identifies air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), as a significant risk factor in LCNS. PM2.5 can increase oxidative stress and inflammation, induce genetic alterations and activation of oncogenes (including the epidermal growth factor receptor, EGFR), and contribute to lung cancer progression. This review summarizes the current understanding of how exposure to PM2.5 induces lung carcinogenesis and accelerates lung cancer development. It underscores the importance of prevention and early detection while calling for targeted therapies to combat the detrimental effects of air pollution. An integrated approach that combines research, public health policy, and clinical practice is essential to reduce the lung cancer burden and improve outcomes for those affected by PM2.5 exposurrre. In this review, PC Yang and colleagues discuss the role of air pollution, particularly the fine particulate matter PM2.5, in lung carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates whether incorporating olfactory dysfunction into motor subtypes of Parkinson's disease (PD) improves associations with clinical outcomes. PD is commonly divided into motor subtypes, such as postural instability and gait disturbance (PIGD) and tremor-dominant PD (TDPD), but non-motor symptoms like olfactory dysfunction remain underexplored. We assessed 157 participants with PD using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), Movement Disorder Society-Sponsored Revision of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (M-UPDRS), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), 39-item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire Summary Index (PDQ-39 SI), and 99mTc-TRODAT-1 imaging. Motor subtypes were categorized as PIGD and TDPD, and olfactory subtypes were categorized as total anosmia (TA) and non-anosmia (NA). Significant differences were observed, with the highest disease burden occurring in PIGD TA, while the lowest occurred in TDPD NA. The total M-UPDRS scores (59.0, 47.5, 43.0, 36.0; p < 0.001) and PDQ-39 SI scores (22.4, 22.8, 9.6, and 9.0; p < 0.001) varied significantly across groups, and the highest occurred for PIGD TA, followed by PIGD NA, TDPD TA, and TDPD NA. MoCA scores indicated the best cognitive performance in TDPD NA (p = 0.002). Thus, the results show that integrating olfactory dysfunction with motor subtypes may enhance PD classification, particularly in cognitive assessment in cases of TDPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UHRF1 maintains DNA methylation by recruiting DNA methyltransferases to chromatin. In mouse, these dynamics are potently antagonized by a natural UHRF1 inhibitory protein STELLA, while the comparable effects of its human ortholog are insufficiently characterized, especially in cancer cells. Herein, we demonstrate that human STELLA (hSTELLA) is inadequate, while mouse STELLA (mSTELLA) is fully proficient in inhibiting the abnormal DNA methylation and oncogenic functions of UHRF1 in human cancer cells. Structural studies reveal a region of low sequence homology between these STELLA orthologs that allows mSTELLA but not hSTELLA to bind tightly and cooperatively to the essential histone-binding, linked tandem Tudor domain and plant homeodomain (TTD-PHD) of UHRF1, thus mediating ortholog-specific UHRF1 inhibition. For translating these findings to cancer therapy, we use a lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-mediated mRNA delivery approach in which the short mSTELLA, but not hSTELLA regions are required to reverse cancer-specific DNA hypermethylation and impair colorectal cancer tumorigenicity. There is growing evidence indicating the different roles of natural UHRF1 inhibitory protein STELLA in mouse-derived cells from its human ortholog. Here, the authors report the differences of hSTELLA versus mSTELLA in inhibiting the maintenance or de novo DNA methylation functions of UHRF1 in human cancer cells, and lipid nanoparticle-delivered mSTELLA reversing cancer-specific DNA hypermethylation thereby impairing colorectal cancer tumorigenicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]